waterless

water ► NOUN 1) the liquid which forms the seas, lakes, rivers, and rain and is the basis of the fluids of living organisms. 2) (waters) an area of sea regarded as under the jurisdiction of a particular country. 3) (the waters) the water of a mineral spring as used medicinally. 4) (waters) amniotic fluid, especially as discharged shortly before birth. 5) urine. 6) one of the four elements (air, earth, fire, and water) in ancient and medieval philosophy and in astrology. 7) the quality of transparency and brilliance shown by a diamond or other gem.

► VERB 1) pour water over (a plant or an area of ground). 2) give a drink of water to (an animal). 3) (of the eyes or mouth) produce tears or saliva. 4) dilute (a drink) with water. 5) (water down) make less forceful or controversial by changing or leaving out certain details. 6) (of a river) flow through (an area).

● hold water — Cf. ↑hold water

● make water — Cf. ↑make water

● of the first water — Cf. ↑of the first water

● under water — Cf. ↑under water

● water on the brain — Cf. ↑water on the brain

● water under the bridge (or N. Amer. water over the dam) — Cf. ↑water under the bridge

DERIVATIVES waterless adjective.

ORIGIN Old English.